Disney On Ice and What You Need to Know Before You Go!

​We had our first experience with Disney On Ice and it was magical. My daughter is now 4 (almost 5) and I knew it would be the perfect time to introduce her to one of my favorite childhood memories. Here are some things I found helpful (and wish I'd known in advance!).

1. Pay more for better seating?

I felt we had pretty average seats. We were located to the left of the performance and about half way up; I felt we had pretty good seats. Would I have paid more for better seats? We had a great view of the show and I don't think any higher or lower would have changed that. Now... they do offer floor seating which was like, rink-side. Honestly, I am not sure that my daughter would have enjoyed the performance anymore being that much closer; She would have thought they were waving directly AT her, so maybe. I did notice that there was a special group that got to be pushed around ON the ice during the show.. I would consider that, she would have thought that was cool. Overall, I don't think you would be disappointed with any seat you get at the show. It's amazing and a great view from any location!

2. When to go?

The show for us started at 7, I left at 6(ish) to get parking taken care of. GO EARLIER! The seats are selected, so it wasn't like I wouldn't get a good seat but there was a snow storm happening so I wanted decent parking. I would have left much earlier so that we could walk around and really enjoy the shops & buzz happening all around, since it was her first time. Parking was $7 (if you are able to find out parking costs ahead, thats helpful!) which I thought was decent pricing for directly in front of the convention center. 

3. How to dress

It's Disney on ICE... that should be a clue that it may be chill. Lots of children will be in costume, so I suggest layers. Obviously here in Wisconsin, you are entering the building from being in a blizzard so chances are you've dressed accordingly... and it's still a good reminder. DRESS UP!! It is so fun to get the kids in the mood and boost excitement with a pretty dress or outfit featuring their favorite character! 

4. Know what show you are attending

There are lots of different Disney on Ice performances so make sure you are going to a show that the kiddos will for sure enjoy! There is nothing more frustrating than spending $$$ on an event to end up with bored children. Here is a list of shows & locations!

5. Be prepared to spend

With a children's event, you can imagine the SWAG they are selling at every turn. SO... be prepared. Inform your crew IF they will be getting a treat or gift, to help prevent disappointment (it's bound to happen). Also, pack you child's water cup (even if it's empty). This helps save the cost of overpriced water or buying a sugary drink. If you don't want concession food, eat before hand. It can be a long show for little kids (they do have an intermission) and having a full belly can ease the boredom munchies.
TIP: At the end of the show they offer a program swag bag- this included a t-shirt, crown, program and some other goodies for only $10!! If you want to treat the kiddos, hold off until the end for a discount!

6. Don't cut out early to beat traffic

You paid good money for the show... the food, drink and swag. This is a big night, maybe not for you but for the kiddos. It's probably late, they're tired (maybe cranky) and my greatest take away from the show was JUST RELAX and TAKE YOUR TIME, the wonder in my daughter's eyes while watching the show was my reminder of WHY we came. Leaving early demonstrates your priority, creates a rushing-energy and heighten the chances (if not worsen) an over-tired, over-sugared child's actions. There are going to be long waits leaving just as there was arriving; be prepared with conversations of favorite parts of the show, singing songs or activities you can print in advance HERE! IT WAS A FUN NIGHT is the impression you want to leave with you kids!